Peppermint the Perky Puppy

Although part of the Second Chance Humane Society service area does not yet have animal control officers (Second Chance serves San Miguel and Ouray Counties) it was great to read in Animal Sheltering magazine (the July/August 2009 edition which I summarize below) about the changing nature of animal control services throughout the nation.  The article details how progressive agencies are changing the way animal control does business, by reconciling the need to protect the public with the goal of saving animals’ lives.

In the early era of animal control (latter days of the 19th century), agencies across the country followed a model that they thought defined their role: protect the public from dangerous animals and cite people for violations of animal control laws.  They felt that the way to correct animal problems was to enforce laws by citing everyone and impounding everything.   However, intake and euthanasia numbers weren’t dropping and the same animal problems kept happening. It was like bailing the ocean with a thimble.

Changes needed to be made at the essence of animal control, a service which evolved out of fear when rabies was regularly causing human fatalities, especially in cities where stray dogs roamed the streets and came into contact with people.  Many understood that deaths from rabies were related to contact with animals, but the limited understanding of disease transmission led to a terror of stray dogs that now seems absurdly paranoid and led to mass and inhumane roundups of stray dogs.  Some of the oldest humane societies in the country were formed by citizens concerned about the brutality of the dogcatchers.

The vast majority of animal control officers today bear no resemblance to the terrifying dogcatchers of history—in part because since 1960, the majority of rabies cases in this country have been caused by wild, not domestic, animals. As a result the U.S. has become a nation of pet lovers and decreases in euthanasia numbers across the country reflect the hard work of people in the field, and the growing public concern for animals.

More people now recognize the value of licensing and of spaying and neutering their pets. More people keep their animals in their homes with them.  National euthanasia estimates in the 1970s were between 12 and 20 million; current annual estimates are below 4 million. It’s a tremendous achievement, and the trend downward continues.

And now the public also wants to know that their local agencies are humane-minded, compassionate places working alongside other community animal welfare groups to stop animal cruelty and reduce euthanasia.  Enforcement is a part of that, but education is just as important.  Subsequently more and more agencies have dropped “Control” from their names, opting for the more friendly “Animal Services”.  For many of the best agencies in the country, citation and enforcement—while still necessary tools—are far, far down the list of daily priorities.

 My name is Peppermint and as a recently rescued puppy here at Second Chance I am grateful for the changes that continue to make life for stray pups like me much better.  And I am grateful for the caring persons who provide animal services throughout this region – from animal control officers to the Second Chance staff and volunteers!

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

Have you ever heard of a zooarchaeologist?  They are the breed of people that study the remains of my ancestors, rather than human ones.  Zooarchaeologists lead a new line of research on cats, dogs, and other animals that were preserved with great skill in care in ancient times.  Such research allows humans to understand whole new and intriguing aspects of daily life and death of Egyptian people who lived thousands of years ago. 

Although some of the discovered mummified animals were meant to serve as dinner or protection for a human mummy, and others were the living representative of a god (such as the bull, ibis, crocodile, or elephant), many were meant to accompany a dead person “into eternity” as his or her everlasting companion.  These were beloved pets which a King or a Princess did not want to leave behind, their linen wrappings adorned jewels, beads, and intricate appliqués.  Zooarchaeologists allow us to recognize that the concept of the human-animal bond that Second Chance Humane Society works to promote is not a novel thing to the modern world but has been developing for thousands of years.

Today animal mummy exhibits are the most popular in historical museums.  According to zooarchaeologist Salima Ikram, who studies animal remains throughout Egypt, animal mummies create a bridge between people today and those of long ago.  “You look at these animals, and suddenly you say, Oh, King So-and-So had a pet.  I have a pet.  And instead of being at a distance of 5,000 plus years, the ancient Egyptians become people”. (National Geographic, Nov. 2009)  People who loved their pets as you do yours.

Most people no longer bring their pets “with them” when they die.  They typically leave them behind to complete their lives with family and friends.  But not everyone makes plans for their pet and as an unfortunate result, many once-loved pets often end up at a local shelter (at best) or simply abandoned (at worst).  Making plans for the care of your pet needs to start now and the Second Chance Pet Column can help.

In next week’s pet column we will discuss how to plan for your pet’s care, not only if you should die but also if you become injured or ill and are unable to temporarily or permanently care for your pet.  Although it is not the most uplifting topic for the Pet Column – it is very important and what all responsible pet parents are encouraged to do.

As a young and healthy little kitten here at Second Chance I should be around a long time and whoever adopts me can look forward to years of “earthly” companionship.  Come to the Shelter to meet me today – just as for “Ambrosia”.

 

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

Kassy the Kisser

I was just reading about a program that the Humane Animal Welfare Society in Waukesha, Wisconsin has developed with the Waukesha Memorial Hospital.  It pairs cardiac rehabilitation patients, who need to begin regular exercise regimes, with shelter dogs in need of walking companions.  It provides the perfect venue for the heart patients, who prior to the program were reluctantly and unenthusiastically going to the hospital rehab center and trudging along on a treadmill.  Now they can go to the Shelter where they are greeted by an exuberant dog ready to take them on a lovely stroll out in the fresh air.

Of course, the dogs benefit as much as the patients.  It is a fact that regularly walked dogs fair much better in a shelter environment, through reduced stress, greater sociability and regular training, which leads to faster and more successful adoptions.  Additionally, the individual time between the walker and the dog in an environment external to the shelter help the staff to learn more about the dog’s temperaments and how they interact with other people and dogs they are not familiar with.  This information is very beneficial for shelter staff in making the right match between the dogs and potential adopters.

The program, called “Cardiac Friends”, has become a social event for many of the participants who often meet as a group for coffee before heading to the shelter for dog walking.  Many participants credit the dogs with their success in staying in the fitness program, as most were previously not avid exercisers.  And not only do they benefit from staying motivated to keep exercising, but they gain the pride of knowing they are making a difference in the lives of homeless pets.  And, did I mention that dogwalking is great for weight loss??? (Walk a hound – lose a pound!)

 Additionally, there are the “hidden” benefits that accompany spending time with dogs, as research has shown, such as reduced blood pressure, depression, anxiety, and even a decrease in the need for pain killers in some post-operative patients.  Thus the physical and emotional well being of both walker and dog are positively affected at multiple levels.

 So, why wait for a heart attack to take advantage of the benefits of walking a shelter dog?  Walking is also a great way to prevent heart issues or just to feel good in general.  Don’t become an indoor hermit this winter.  The Second Chance Shelter is adjacent to the bike/walking path here in Ridgway – which is maintained from snow and ice and the walking conditions are lovely most afternoons.

 As I write this week’s Pet Column it is snowing outside.  I love snow.  I love how fluffy and light and refreshing it feels – it makes me jump for joy.  Why don’t we go jump around together???   My name is Kassy.  I am young, energetic, fun-loving and would love to help you stay strong and healthy.  Come by for a stroll today!!!

 

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

Dear Pet Column Readers,

My name is Anastasia and I am waiting here at the Second Chance Shelter, hoping to be going Home for the Holidays!  I have done some research on Holiday Hazards around the household so that I can be on my best behavior when I am adopted.  Most of these hazards apply to any pets around the house – so essentially everyone should pay attention…

First off, as enticing at it appears to your pet, particularly energetic and adventurous kittens and puppies, do not to let your pets climb or chew upon your Christmas tree.  Tree toppling can lead to injuries for your pets as well as innocent bystanders.  To prevent such a calamity simply secure your tree to the ceiling or wall with sturdy fishing line or the like. 

Another precaution you should take is in regard to the tree ornaments.  Make sure that the ornaments within reach of your pets are non-breakable plastic or wooden ornaments and not glass.  Also, do not leave tree lights plugged in while curious pets are unattended, light-chewing can deliver unhealthy results.

Other Holiday hazards include Holiday plants that are poisonous and dangerous to your pets – which cats are particularly attracted to, such as poinsettia, mistletoe and amaryllis plants.  Either keep them out of the house or make sure they are out of reach of your cats (which many cat parents will tell you – it is difficult to keep things out of reach of many sprite felines).

Speaking of Holiday edibles that are bad for pet tummies, there have been many cases reported of dogs breaking into boxes of packaging peanuts and feasting on them (if they don’t want us to eat them why do they make them look like peanuts?).  Keep those packing products out of the reach of those pets whose stomachs override their sensibilities (and their taste buds…). 

Chocolate, raisins, onions, and other rich foods are of course no-no’s, so those platters of fudge, fruit bread, and the like are best kept out of reach as well (do I need to detail about stringing popcorn on the tree?).  Of course, don’t forget about our powerful “sniffers” and remember that wrapped boxes of chocolate and other treats won’t last long under the tree once you step out for some Caroling and sleigh-riding…

And while on the topic of snacking under the tree, remember to keep your tree stand covered as pine sap and water, although sweet smelling, poses a poisonous threat to your pet as well.

With all of these precautions I hope you don’t lose focus on what really counts: having pets amongst your household family members during the Holidays truly adds to the spirit of love, cuddles, and warmth.   Please remember all the orphaned pets during the Holidays.  Spread the love through bringing us into your homes or sharing treats, toys, and hugs with all the Second Chance shelter pets.   Enhance this Season of Giving and of Light with those in need…

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

Tasha loves Facebook!

Second Chance Humane Society would like to help shelter pets like me get a Home for the Holidays.  We are hoping you can help us.  We are initiating a little experiment in internet social media that we hope will spread the word about all the adoptable and adorable pets waiting for their forever homes here at Second Chance.  It is a quick and easy as a way for you to make a difference this Holiday Season in saving the lives of pets in need.  The more pets we can work together to find new homes for results in additional pets that can then be rescued through the Second Chance Shelter. 

This social media experiment simply involves putting our Facebook page to its intended application of networking and expanding our community connections and outreach efforts.  As such, we are inviting all our Pet Column readers to become fans of Second Chance Humane Society! 

Through Facebook you can help us spread the word on adoptable pets seeking new families as well as other community services that Second Chance provides.  You can also help us to promote our Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance Program, recruit foster care givers, promote our events, etc.  You can also share in our success stories and give us feedback on how we are doing.  We place a great value on our community connections and hope that Facebook will be another avenue for us to interact with our animal loving communities

Additionally, our Facebook page has photo albums which give you easy access to the wonderful photos of our many adoptable pets (photos by Real Life Photographs) which you can share with others.  The photos are much larger than we can display on our website page and thus really help to promote the unique characteristics of all the various shelter pets.

Beyond helping our pets find Homes for the Holidays, becoming a Facebook fan of Second Chance also gives you access to updates on our events and news.  If you are a Facebook member simply do a Facebook search for Second Chance Humane Society, once you find our page click on the “become a fan” button.  Done.  If you are not a Facebook member – we have no intention of pushing Facebook on you – but consider our invitation if you ever do venture into the Facebook world…

As I write this Pet Column there are 73 wonderful Fans listed on our Facebook page.  I would like to see that number at least double after this Column is printed…it truly could be the way that I find my new family.  As a lovely, young, and exuberant Retriever/Lab mix I can’t think of anything better than being with my new family for the Holidays…

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

 

Scotty the Cat - not the Marshall

Although pets make great companions and teachers for children it is important that such relationships be developed properly and safely.  Not all children are comfortable around pets nor are all pets comfortable around children.  However, with the right approach this dynamic can be transformed.  Friendships between children and pets can lead to some of the most positive relationship and bonding experiences of a child’s early life. 

So whether it is the pet, child, or both that is not accustomed to the other, how you proceed to establish comfortable relations between children and pets is critical to the speed and longevity of success.  The guidelines below can help in this process:

When a new pet is brought into the home it is critical that the family not overwhelm and over-stimulate the pet.  Recognize that the pet is entering a whole new world which can be frightening and unsettling at first.  Allow the pet ample space to adjust, as well as time to learn the routines of the house and the individual household members. 

Establish rules and routines early, yet allow for some leniency in the beginning as the pet adjusts to the varying novelty of the rules.  This does not mean that you should allow your new dog on the couch if the rules are “no dogs on the couch” but it does mean that patience and repetition should be applied in teaching the rule.  Thus, if the dog does plop itself on the couch – correct immediately but gently.  Ultimately you want to build a trusting relationship where the pet looks to you for direction – out of respect and not fear.

Similarly there is a big adjustment period when a new person is brought into the household where pets reside.  Whether it be a new baby or a visiting child it is important to allow the household pet time and space to adjust to new little beings in “his” or “her” home.  Do not force the introduction if the pet is hesitant – let them approach the baby or child when they are ready.  Always closely supervise pets and babies or children who are unfamiliar with one another.  Speak calmly and reassuringly to the pet, communicating that the “intruder” is welcomed with confidence. 

During initial introductions monitor your pet for any signs of fear or anxiety, if the pet is uncertain about the “new person” continue to monitor and supervise all interactions until the pet adjusts comfortably to the household addition.  Play with your cat, walk your dog, etc. in the vicinity of the new family member, allowing your pet to associate the new person with positive aspects of the pet’s life.  Have ample treats on hand to reward your pet for appropriate behavior around the baby or child. 

Although a new family member typically means less time for the pets, do make an effort to not let your pet’s feel abandoned.  This association of abandonment with the new baby will not benefit the relationship between pet and baby.  Do your best to maintain important routines of exercise and play with your pets.

By the way, my name is “Scotty”, named after my favorite law enforcement officer, and as a “cat in waiting” here at the Second Chance Shelter I thought I would mention that my laid back personality makes me a good candidate for a household with children…come meet me today!

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

 

Eddie the Lover

Although adopting a rescue pet is a heartwarming and transformative experience, Second Chance Humane Society urges anyone preparing to bring a new pet into the family to realize that it is a lifetime commitment.  It is critical to acknowledge that pet adoption almost always involves a transition period while the pet learns that he/she really is a permanent family member – forever.   Additionally the bonding and attachment process doesn’t happen overnight – but everyone has to get to know each other better at their own pace.  

Eddie, a very good natured Red Heeler who has been at the Second Chance Shelter for several weeks wrote this poem to help remind us all of this.

“The Meaning of Rescue”

Now that I’m home, bathed, settled and fed,
All nicely tucked in my warm new bed,
I’d like to open my baggage, lest I forget,
There is so much to carry—so much to regret.
Hmmm—Yes, there it is, right on top
Let’s unpack Loneliness, Heartache and Loss,
And there by my leash hides Fear and Shame.
As I look on these things I tried so hard to leave,
I still have to unpack my baggage called Pain.
I loved them, the others, the ones who left me,
But I wasn’t good enough for they didn’t want me.
Will you add to my baggage?
Will you help me unpack?
Or will you just look at my things — And take me right back?
Do you have the time to help me unpack?
To put away my baggage, To never repack?
I pray that you do—I’m so tired, you see,
But I do come with baggage—
Will you still want me?

Eddie adjusted smoothly  to the staff, volunteers and the various other Shelter pets and is ready to make a new transition into a loving forever home.  He has a deformed front foot which he has fully learned to accept and which does not prevent him from playing with other dogs or cuddling with staff and volunteers and living a completely happy and normal life.  Come meet him today, one look into his angelic eyes and you will be hooked like the rest of us…

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

 To all pet lovers, from Spark Plug, an adorable cat waiting here at the Second Chance Humane Society for adoption…. Enjoy….

 If I Didn’t Have a Dog… Or Cat……

I could walk around the yard barefoot in safety.
My house could be carpeted instead of tiled and laminated.

All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture & cars would be free of hair.
When the doorbell rings, it wouldn’t sound like a kennel.

 When the doorbell rings, I could get to the door without
wading through fuzzy bodies who beat me there.

I could sit on the couch and my bed the way I wanted,
without taking into consideration how much space
Several fur bodies would need to get comfortable.

I would have money, & no guilt to go on a real vacation.

I would not be on a first-name basis with numerous  veterinarians, as I put their yet unborn grandkids through college.

The most used words in my vocabulary would not be: out, sit, down, come, no, stay, & leave him/her/it ALONE.

My house would not be cordoned off into zones with baby gates or barriers.

My house would not look like a day care center, with toys everywhere.

My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, treats and an extra leash.

 I would no longer have to spell the words B-A-L-L,,
F-R-I-S-B-E-E, W-A-L-K,, T-R-E-A-T,, R-I-D-E,, GO

I would not have as many leaves INSIDE my house as outside.

I would not look strangely at people who think having ONE dog/cat ties them down too much.

I’d look forward to spring and the rainy season instead of dreading ‘mud’ season.

 I would not have to answer the question ‘Why do you have so many animals?’ from people who will never have the joy in their lives of knowing they are loved unconditionally by someone as close to an angel  as they will ever get.

How EMPTY my life would be!!!

‘Until one has loved an animal, part of their soul remains unawakened’

 Thanks to all who have helped Second Chance Humane Society increase adoptions by 50% over 2008 (through September that is…).

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

Copper - shinier than a Penny

The Advertising Council, in partnership with The Humane Society of the United States, and Maddie’s Fund announced the launch of The Shelter Pet Project, a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign, designed to encourage pet lovers throughout the country to make shelters their first choice for acquiring companion animals. The Shelter Pet Project is the first national PSA campaign to bring together the largest animal welfare organizations and many shelters across the country for one unified goal—to increase pet adoption.

There are approximately 75 million dogs and 88 million cats in American households. Presently, most people do not obtain their pets from shelters, but rather from pet stores, the Internet sellers, friends, neighbors, breeders or other sources. According to The Humane Society of the United States and Maddie’s Fund, eight million pets enter shelters and rescue groups every year, with three million of these healthy and treatable pets euthanized due to lack of adoption.

The Shelter Pet Project aims to change the public’s perception of shelter pets and encourage Americans to save a pet’s life by adopting from an animal shelter or rescue group.  Second Chance Humane Society is one of hundreds of shelters that receives a large variety of mixed and full bred pets that we hope you will consider for your next pet.

The humorous PSAs aim to break down the stereotypes associated with shelter pets and make shelters and rescue groups the desired place for people to find a pet. The ads feature stories of how pets come into shelters through no fault of their own, but to due owners’ issues, such as divorce, financial difficulty, and ill-prepared owners. The television, radio, print, outdoor and web ads direct audiences to visit a new comprehensive website, www.theshelterpetproject.org, to find out more information about how to adopt a pet from a shelter. The website also includes a “Pet Personals” section, where users are matched with pets from a local shelter or rescue group. 

“We are proud to join with The HSUS and Maddie’s Fund on this very important campaign, the first in our 67-year history that will benefit pets,” said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. “This campaign will help change the conversation about pet shelters and help Americans understand that they are a wonderful place to adopt a pet. Ultimately, our efforts will provide loving homes for healthy shelter dogs and cats throughout the country.”

In addition to the new PSAs and website, The Shelter Pet Project will engage the target audiences through a series of social media strategies, including blog and online outreach, as well as social networking initiatives. The campaign will encourage advocates, shelter workers, pet lovers and all Americans to become a “fan” and take a pledge to adopt a pet on Facebook. Audiences will also have the opportunity to sign up on Twitter to receive tweets from a shelter pet, which convey his point of view, and view the new PSAs through YouTube. You can join through the following links:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shelter-Pet-Project/126480082642

Twitter: https://twitter.com/shelterpets

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/shelterpetproject

My name is Copper, a handsome German Short Hair/Pointer mix here at the Second Chance Shelter – I certainly never deserved to become homeless – and by spreading the word on the Shelter Pet Project you can help pets like me find the loving forever homes we do deserve!

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.

 

 

 

 

 

Sheba of the Shelter

 

My name is Sheba, Sheba of the Second Chance Shelter.  I am one of the 14 cats that came to Second Chance after our parent died a few months ago.  A few of us have found new homes but most of us are still waiting.  We have all had dentals, vaccinations, and all but a few are now healthy and ready to move on.  However, being advanced in age makes it challenging to find a new forever home and, although I am only about 8 years old with plenty of spunk, a few of my step-siblings are more at the retired age of 10+ and just need a warm and loving home where they can rest and cuddle.

Recently Second Chance had a successful adoption of a senior cat – the only downside to that great news was that it took almost two years to occur.  Not that this is a bad place, but I would much rather be in a home of my own than here at the shelter for the next two years…but this Pet Column is not a sob story.  It is a story of truth. 

So let me give you the beta about adopting a senior pet – it is actually ideal for many families and worth investigating further. For example, we are so less needy than our younger counterparts and have learned to let go of many of our bad habits and demands.  Most importantly we teach others an acceptance of life that is comparable to the Zen Masters teachings – BE. 

Many people that I have briefly met at the shelter and who have had their hearts opened by my unabashed willingness to extend myself to them have ended up leaving with one of the younger cats here at the shelter.  I do fully comprehend their fear of the potentially shorter lifetime we would have together.  People would rather avoid or prolong the grief of saying goodbye that is a natural part of life, I understand this (remember I am a Zen Master…). 

I also know that we make the most of what we have – and cat life longevity varies from up to 20+ years.  So yes, adopting an older pet has certain risks to it, but there are no guarantees of longevity for any pet you adopt.  The important thing is that the time we have together will be richly rewarded by love, connection, and companionship. 

I am not attempting to persuade someone to bring a pet home that is not the right person or family, but I am asking you to consider that perhaps you ARE the right person.  If you have a warm and comfortable home where I can stay inside and greet you and the rest of the family with willingly received rubs and purrs, you might want to consider coming to meet me or my step-siblings at the shelter. 

Most of all I just want to fulfill my purpose, to love and be loved.  In closing, at the risk of sounding melodramatic, I will leave you with this thought: every day more spent at the shelter is one day less I can spend with you… 

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  kelly@secondchancehumanesociety.org.  Photo by Real Life Photographs.